media_artricles :: 2017

Blake calls for support at cricket

Vinode Mamchan :: Trinidad Guardian :: 10.10.2017

With just days to go to the classic T20 match being hosted to raise funds for victims of the recent hurricanes, Jamaican sprinter, Yohan Blake is urging local fans to come out and support the venture. Blake will be part of the match that takes places on October 14 at the Queen's Park Oval, Port-of-Spain. The match which bowls off at 7pm will feature a Trinidad and Tobago Red Force team captained by Kieron Pollard clash against a Regional XI.

"The Charity T20 match is for a worthy cause I am hoping that fans fill the Queen's Park Oval to see the Red Force play the Regional XI as well as bring canned food or clothing which can be placed in collection bins that will be at the facility," said Blake. The Olympic gold medallist revealed that when approached to take part in the match he jumped at the opportunity because he wanted to be part of the relief effort to assist hurricane victims.

"I am an avid cricket fan. So being able to play with some of the best cricketers in the world for such a worthy cause was an easy decision. We all need to play our part to help our Caribbean brothers and sisters who have been affected by these hurricanes," said Blake. He added, "I hope my presence can play a small but important role to ensure that we get aid to the people who need it. Therefore, it is important that we get the support from fans in Trinidad and Tobago and we commence the process of rebuilding the islands that have been devastated." Also making a call for supporters to come forward are TTCB executive members Dr. Allen Sammy and Baldath Mahabir. Sammy said that he is expecting a bumper crowd as the National League clubs, representing the highest levels of the game are expected to mobilise their support and contribute to the noble cause.

"Apart from the contribution being made by the top-class cricketers, the local cricket clubs must come out with their supporters, from the towns and villages to make the event a success," said Sammy.

Apart from the Hurricane Relief match, an FCB account No 2441289 has been opened and donations are invited to help swell the effort as the fellow Caribbean people are in dire need because of the devastating natural disaster.

On match night, collection bins will also be strategically placed for those also wishing to contribute canned foodstuff, clothes, toiletries and other items which can assist the victims of the disaster alleviate their hardship. Also, making a strident plea for support of the venture is Mahabir, who said that natural disasters can strike at any time and do not discriminate so the TT public must not be shy of using whatever available resources, through donations, corporate and private support, and attendance at the Hurricane Relief T20 to show unity and support for their less fortunate regional brothers and sisters.

Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at NLCB booths nationwide in Trinidad and Tobago. Children 12 and under accompanied by a paying adult will be allowed free entry. The match will be broadcasted LIVE on CNC3 television, and Vibe Ct 105.1 from 730pm on Saturday.

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